Saturday, March 12, 2011

Many of you reading this blog already know Allie...but for anyone new...Meet Allie!

I shared her story for the new summer team as my mission moment. Allie is my niece and she was diagnosed in 1994 with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL) at 7 1/2 months old. At that time there were only 50 children annually diagnosed under the age of 1. Her treatment began immediately and at the 30 day mark she was in remission. She underwent 2 1/2 years of treatment and is now a healthy, happy high school student who is about to turn 17!

Allie doesn't remember her diagnosis or treatment (thanks goodness) but she does remember all the events we participated in as a family in her honor and she has now stepped up to continue as a participant herself. On December 13, 2009, Allie became an official Team in Training alumni as she crossed the finish line while running the White Rock Marathon RELAY two days before celebrating her 15th year in remission. It was a glorious day...and I couldn't have been more proud. In December of 2010 Allie completed her FIRST half marathon for Team in Training. She is committed to helping find a cure like the rest of our family.

I'd like to take this moment to THANK every family, friend or stranger who has donated in honor of Allie. Your donation has made a difference in the lives of many and continues to impact patients today!

Photos above in order: Allie's first week in the hospital; Allie in 1996 as a TNT honored hero; Allie in 2009 completing her first TNT event!